Starship Foundation named Official Charity Partner of the DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017

The Starship Foundation is an icon of hope and support for many New Zealand families, and ASB is proud to continue supporting our long-term partnership by being involved in the 2017 Lions series together.

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) today announced Starship Foundation as the Official Charity Partner of the DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017, thanks to ASB. The charity, which raises vital funds for the national children’s hospital, is aiming to raise $200,000 throughout the Series to support Starship's Emergency Department, in conjunction with long term partner, ASB.

Starship will feature prominently at all 10 matches of the Series with rugby fans in stadia, fanzones and at home encouraged to support the iconic New Zealand charity and donate for a great cause.

NZR General Manager of the DHL New Zealand Lions Series, Nigel Cass, said the spotlight on Starship over the six-week series would help reinforce the incredible work the hospital does for New Zealand children.

“In the region of 350,000 people will attend the Series, so if every person gave just $1 we’d almost double the fundraising target. We hope the exposure provided for Starship as the Official Charity Partner of the DHL New Zealand Lions Series leads to them exceeding their fundraising targets and makes a meaningful difference to the children, and their families and whanau who need to call on Starship.”

Starship Foundation chief executive Brad Clark said the charity was delighted to be named as the Official Charity Partner of the Series.

“Sporting events in New Zealand don’t come much bigger than the Lions Series, and we are thrilled to be part of this once-in-12-years rugby tour.

“We’re hugely grateful for the support of our long-standing partner, ASB, who is creating exciting technology for rugby fans to donate to Starship during the series. With more than 120,000 patient visits to Starship each year from around New Zealand, we’re calling on supporters to put their hands in their pockets and help provide our young patients, their families and hospital staff with new and improved emergency department.”

ASB executive general manager marketing and communications Roger Beaumont said ASB is proud to work alongside NZR to raise money for Starship.

“This year, ASB and Starship are delighted to celebrate a 25-year sponsorship milestone by being involved in the exciting Lions series together. A Lions Series is a truly national event, and we think involving the children’s hospital in the series is a great way to connect our love of rugby with our support of Starship,” Mr Beaumont says.

Former All Black centurion Mils Muliaina, speaking to families at today’s announcement at Starship Children’s Hospital said the national hospital was a great choice as the Official Charity Partner of the DHL NZ Lions Series.

“I’ve seen first-hand the incredible work Starship does for children and their families. All the hospital staff work tirelessly to provide the best possible care to the children and in a caring and welcoming environment.

“Playing the Lions in 2005 was a highlight of my career and I’m hoping the success of this year’s Series will further help Starship make a difference to children in their care for generations to come.”

Starship donations can be made at 2017 DHL New Zealand Lions Series matches, or by texting 833 to donate $3.00, or at any ASB branch.